A TEENAGER who survived cancer is now training to become a pediatric nurse after her experience helped her make a decision.
Eighteen-year-old Katie Watson, who studies pediatrics at Glasgow Caledonian University, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia at age 14.
In 2019, after two years of oral chemotherapy, she underwent a bone marrow transplant.
Katie received most of her care and her transplant at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.
Katie in the hospital
The teen said: “I had wanted to be a nurse before my treatment, but when I had that experience, I came to a decision. The whole team was great, quite inspiring.
“Once the nurses knew I wanted to be one, they would talk to me and explain what they were doing. For example, they would show me how to measure my own blood pressure; they fed me with knowledge.
“I also think that what I’ve been through, like my transplant, will help me become a good nurse. I know how the person in that bed feels, so when my time comes to nurse, I will have that understanding.”
Katie pictured for her prom
Originally from Maybole, Katie lives in Glasgow while she studies and enjoys her time in the city.
She said: “I have always been quite independent and enjoy being out and about in Glasgow. The course is going well and I look forward to starting internships soon.
“I love learning more about being a pediatric nurse and being able to give back. I want to make kids feel better – just like they did me.”
Katie was also treated in a number of wards at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital during her treatment.
Katie in the hospital
Chief Nurse Emma Somerville says the team is delighted to hear of how well Katie is doing.
She added: “Katie always had a very positive attitude and this had a positive effect on other young people in the department. She took each day as it came, and I think that really helped her through her treatment.
“We are so proud that her experience inspired her to become a pediatric nurse. It’s a real boost for us and we’re excited for her to make it a reality. This kind of patient feedback makes all the hard work worth it.”
Comments are closed.